SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Fairgoers will get a preview of the 2007 Grandstand line-up this week when four-time Country Music Association Female Vocalist of the Year Martina McBride guest stars on American Idol.

McBride, whose new album "Waking Up Laughing" was released April 3, will take the Grandstand stage Friday, Aug. 17.

"With 22 top-10 singles and 16 million records sold, Martina McBride has established herself as one of country music’s brightest stars," Fair Manager Amy Bliefnick said. "We’re excited to announce she has agreed to perform at this year’s Illinois State Fair."

The debut single on McBride’s new album, "Anyway," has become the fastest rising single of her illustrious career, a career that has produced six number one hits and classics such as "Independence Day," her signature song. She will appear on American Idol April 17-18 as part of a promotional tour to support her new album. The popular TV show airs on the Fox Network.

"We’re currently negotiating with other performers and hope to announce the complete Grandstand line-up in the coming weeks," Bliefnick said. "Tickets will go on sale as soon as agreements are reached."

The 2007 Illinois State Fair will be held Aug. 10-19 and feature six Grandstand concerts. Fairgoers can check the fair’s website at www.illinoisstatefair.info for updated information concerning the Grandstand acts and ticket sales dates.